OpenSCAD Tutorial: From Photo to Customizable 3D Model

Published: February 21, 2026

The Best Way to Learn OpenSCAD

Learning OpenSCAD from scratch can be intimidating. You're staring at a blank text editor, trying to imagine how to describe a 3D shape with code. But what if you could start with a working example?

That's exactly what this tutorial offers. Instead of building from zero, we'll start with an AI-generated OpenSCAD file from a photo—real, working code that you can study, modify, and learn from.

What is OpenSCAD?

OpenSCAD is a free, open-source 3D CAD modeler. Unlike Blender or Fusion 360 where you sculpt or click to create shapes, OpenSCAD uses code. You write instructions describing your model, and OpenSCAD renders it.

Why Code-Based Modeling?

Precision: Specify exact dimensions down to the micron
Parametric: Change one variable, update the entire model
Reproducible: Share code instead of files—anyone can regenerate your exact model
Version Control: Track changes with Git like any other code
Automation: Generate variations programmatically with loops and functions

Step 1: Generate Your First .scad File

Instead of starting with a blank file, let's generate one from a photo:

Go to 3DMyPhoto
Upload a photo (a simple object like a logo, sign, or product works best)
Select the OpenSCAD export option
Download the generated .scad file

You now have working OpenSCAD code to study and modify!

Step 2: Install OpenSCAD

Download OpenSCAD for free from openscad.org/downloads. It's available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Once installed, open your downloaded .scad file. You'll see:

Left panel: The code editor
Right panel: The 3D preview
Bottom panel: Console output and errors

Step 3: Understanding the Generated Code

Let's look at what AI-generated OpenSCAD code typically contains:

Variables (Parameters)

At the top, you'll see variable definitions like:

// Model Parameters
base_width = 50;    // Width in mm
base_height = 10;   // Height in mm
depth = 5;          // Extrusion depth

These are the "knobs" you can turn. Change a value, and the model updates. Try changing base_width to 100 and press F5 to see the difference.

Primitives

OpenSCAD builds models from basic shapes:

cube([x, y, z]) — Creates a box
cylinder(h, r) — Creates a cylinder
sphere(r) — Creates a sphere
polygon(points) — Creates 2D shapes
linear_extrude(height) — Turns 2D into 3D

Boolean Operations

Combine shapes using CSG (Constructive Solid Geometry):

union() — Combine shapes together
difference() — Subtract one shape from another
intersection() — Keep only where shapes overlap

// Example: A cube with a hole
difference() {
    cube([50, 50, 10]);
    translate([25, 25, -1])
        cylinder(h=12, r=10);
}

Transformations

Move and rotate shapes:

translate([x, y, z]) — Move in 3D space
rotate([x, y, z]) — Rotate around axes
scale([x, y, z]) — Resize proportionally

Step 4: Making Your First Modification

Let's make some simple changes to your generated model:

Exercise 1: Change the Size

Find the size-related variables at the top of your file. Double one of them and press F5 to preview. You should see your model get bigger.

Exercise 2: Add a Mounting Hole

Wrap the existing model in a difference() and subtract a cylinder:

difference() {
    // Your original model code here
    existing_model();
    
    // Add a mounting hole
    translate([25, 25, -1])
        cylinder(h=100, r=3, $fn=32);
}

Exercise 3: Add Text

OpenSCAD can create 3D text:

translate([10, 10, depth])
    linear_extrude(2)
        text("Hello", size=8);

Step 5: Export to STL for 3D Printing

Once you're happy with your model:

Press F6 to do a full render (this may take a moment)
Go to File → Export → Export as STL
Save your .stl file
Open in your slicer (Cura, PrusaSlicer, etc.) and print!

Tips for Learning OpenSCAD

Start with generated code: Study real examples before writing from scratch
Use F5 frequently: Preview often as you make changes
Read error messages: The console tells you what's wrong
Comment your code: Future you will thank present you
Use the cheat sheet: Keep our OpenSCAD cheat sheet handy

Going Further: OpenSCAD Resources

Generate Your First OpenSCAD Model

Learning by doing is the best approach. Upload a photo, get working OpenSCAD code, and start exploring.

Start Learning with AI